4 ties for the gentleman on your list

Wondering what to get the gentleman on your list this holiday season?

The necktie is a classic gift, and the centerpiece in men's fashion today.

To look sharp and professional, there are a few signature ties every man should own, says Alex Wilcox, owner of Lord Willy's, a British men's clothing shop in New York City. Consider adding one of these to your shopping list.

Navy tie

The first is a tie in a deep blue color. It's a standby because a navy tie works just as well with a grey suit as a plaid one.

Wilcox sports a navy tie

"The beauty of a deep navy tie is that it's going to allow all the other colors [around it] to breathe," says Wilcox. "The tie itself is the grounding element and the other fabrics breathe around it."

For someone "a little pink in skin color, the dark reds are going to bring that out," he says. For someone with olive-toned skin, "great colors like chocolates or dark greens or purples are going to look beautiful," he adds.

Silk knitted tie

A simple black, navy or dark knitted tie is another good choice. It should be about 2 1/2" wide.

"They add a casual, relaxed flair to a shirt at the weekend -- or even during the week with a suit," says Wilcox. "It's like 'sort-of-wearing-a-tie.' "

But keep it classic and get it from an old-school vendor, Wilcox advises.

Graphic tie

Another great option is the graphic tie, Wilcox says. Paired with the right suit, it offers another way for a gentleman to express himself besides color.

Tempted by ties with little airplanes or monkeys or bananas on them? They may be cute, but better to avoid those, says Wilcox. They'll always look like a Christmas gift.